[born in 601 in Wales]. He founded a monastery at Mynew (Miniva) and is known as the first bishop of the place called St. David. The monks followed an exceedingly austere life and the monastery became a nursery of saints. He founded a dozen monasteries and many miracles are attributed to him. He is the principle patron of Wales. He is shown as a bishop with a dove near him. He often stands on a small hill. The leek and daffodil are also associated with him, the latter perhaps because of the similarity of its name to his in Welsh (Dafydd). He is the Patron of poets and of Wales. His feast is March 1.

St. David of Wales

Feast Day:
Roman Rite Calendar - 03/01
Tridentine Calendar - 03/01

Patron Of:
Wales, Doves

Welsh royalty. Son of King Sant of South Wales and Saint Non. Grandson of Ceredig, Prince of Cardigan. Uncle of King Arthur. Priest. Studied under Saint Paulinus. Collaborated with Saint Columba, Saint Gildas, and Saint Finnigan. Missionary and founder of monasteries.

Following his contribution to the synod of Brevi in Cardiganshire, he was chosen primate of the Cambrian Church. Archbishop of Caerleon on Usk; moved the see to Menevia. Presided at the Synod of Brefi which condemned the Pelagian heresy. Encouraged and founded monasteries. First to build a chancel to Saint Joseph of Arimathea's wattle church at Glastonbury.

After a vision in his monastery in the Rhos Valley, he set out next day with two monks to Jerusalem to aid the Patriarch. While there his preaching converted anti-Christians. Legend says that once while he was preaching, a dove descended to his shoulder to show he had the blessings of the Spirit, and that the earth rose to lift him high above the people so that he could be heard by them all.